Ziziphus mauritiana - Edible Fruit/Nuts,Tree,Web page Navigation - Indian Jujube Page

Ziziphus mauritiana, commonly known as Indian jujube or Chinese date, is a tropical fruit tree species with a wide range of uses and benefits. This spiny, evergreen shrub or small tree can reach heights of up to 15 meters and has a spreading crown, stipular spines, and many drooping branches. It is native to the Indo-Malaysian region of South-East Asia but has naturalized throughout the Old World tropics.

The fruit of Ziziphus mauritiana is of variable shape and size, ranging from oval to oblong or round. It can be 1-2.5 inches long and has smooth, glossy, thin but tight skin. The flesh is white and crisp and has a pleasant aroma. The fruit is rich in vitamin C and is considered to be highly nutritious.

The timber of the Ziziphus mauritiana tree is hard, strong, and durable, making it suitable for various purposes such as lining wells, making bedstead legs, boat ribs, agricultural implements, tool handles, and other lathe-turned items.

In addition to its culinary uses, the fruits of Ziziphus mauritiana have medicinal properties. They can be applied on cuts and ulcers, used in pulmonary ailments and fevers, and taken with salt and chili peppers to treat indigestion and biliousness. The dried ripe fruit also serves as a mild laxative.

Ziziphus mauritiana is not only valued for its fruits but also for its seed oil, which can be used as biodiesel. The oil meets the major biodiesel requirements in the USA, Germany, and the European Union. The tree's ability to grow in arid or semi-arid regions makes it a suitable option for biodiesel production in drought-prone areas.

Ecologically, Ziziphus mauritiana is a hardy tree that can tolerate extreme temperatures and grow in relatively dry conditions. It has a high tolerance for both waterlogging and drought. The tree can grow in a wide variety of soil types and is well-suited for commercial cultivation in regions with an annual rainfall of 300 to 500 mm.

Propagation of Ziziphus mauritiana is commonly done from seed, with pretreatment being beneficial for better germination. Seedlings can also be used as rootstock and can be raised from seed. Cross-pollination by insects is required for fruit set, as the flowers of Ziziphus mauritiana are protandrous.

Overall, Ziziphus mauritiana is a versatile fruit tree species with various uses and benefits. Whether consumed raw, pickled, or used in beverages, the fruits provide nutrition and have a pleasant taste. The tree itself is hardy, adaptable, and has uses beyond its fruits, making it an excellent addition to tropical and subtropical regions.